And it's also created another 13 jobs as part of the refurb, which was supported by First Trust Bank.

Flagstaff Lodge on Forkhill Road said the rooms would allow it to offer "a full hospitality experience".

Owner Gary Heaney said: "We are delighted to now bring our brand new purpose built accommodation facilities to the local market and look forward to welcoming new guests in the days and weeks ahead.

"We are conveniently located, midway between Belfast and Dublin, just off the A1/M1 dual carriageway and with the many tourist attractions on our doorstep including the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the world famous Mourne mountains, we are confident that we will meet a need for more quality accommodation in the area," he added.

First Trust manager Stephen Comer said the venue already enjoyed a reputation for good food and service.

"Given the growth in tourism and business in the area we believed in his vision to add purpose built accommodation, growing the broader hospitality offering on what is already a well-known landmark site," he said.

"We believe that this a very welcome addition to the local hospitality sector and will benefit the wider community, delivering more visitors and spend in the Newry area."